THE REVIVAL TIMES

Yesterday marked a significant milestone as the resurfacing of the Lake Garnett Raceway was officially completed, ensuring the track’s legacy will endure for years to come. To celebrate this achievement, Tracy Modlin, president of the Lake Garnett Grand Prix Revival (LGGPR), presented a check for $90,428.60 to the Garnett City Commission last night, with the funds coming directly from the “Save the Track” initiative.  This fund, made possible by the generous donations of countless supporters, plus major contributions from the City of Garnett, Goppert State Service Bank, Kansas Tourism, Thrive Allen County, and McAnany Construction Inc., is a testament to...

Will Toly come back to Lake Garnett for the 60th Anniversary? YES! Toly hopes to return to Lake Garnett and drive his 2002 Qvale Mangusta. Kjell Qvale (pronounced “Shell Kervahley”) was a Norwegian who came to the states and started selling MG TCs in 1947. He later sold Jaguars, Porsches, Rolls Royces, De Tomasos, Maseratis and Lamborginis among other cars. Qvale was responsible for the Jensen Healey, the Pebble Beach Concours and the Corkscrew design at Laguna Seca. When I asked Toly about his favorite race courses he mentioned Targa Florio and Elkhart Lake. Toly also had a major influence...

Bob Icenberger raced at Lake Garnett back in the original days. His daughter Valerie connected me with Bob, and we had a fun interview. Bob raced a 1962 Sprite MKII that was coral pink and usually sported the SCCA national number 13. He raced all over: Grain Valley, Texas when Dick Smothers raced there; the airport in Shreveport, LA; War Bonnet in Oklahoma; Hallet when Paul Newman raced there and Bob even visited with Newman; Heartland in Topeka; the Greenwood Raceway in Iowa; an airport at Independence, Kansas; at Des Moines when Art Bunker was racing there with his Porsche;...

Ever wonder who took the green flag at the 1969 Lake Garnett Grand Prix? This original entry list offers a fascinating snapshot of the drivers and cars that lined up to compete that year. From familiar names to forgotten contenders, the document captures the depth and diversity of the field during one of the later years of the original races. For longtime fans, it may spark memories. For newer enthusiasts, it provides a glimpse into the competitors who helped shape the Lake Garnett Grand Prix legacy. Take a look and see what names you recognize.

The Founding of the Lake Garnett Grand Prix RevivalA tribute to CB Harris, Cheryl Harris, and Denny Hale – and to everyone who believed in this from the start. The Ghost Track In the summer of 2013, a flyer made its way into the hands of Darren Traub – an invitation to drive around a ghost track in Garnett, Kansas titled Lake Garnett Grand Prix Revisited. The track, a 2.8-mile road circling Lake Garnett, had once been the site of the nationally recognized Lake Garnett Grand Prix Races, an SCCA premier series that ran from 1959 through 1972. Dan Gurney,...

This scanned program from the 1962 Lake Garnett Grand Prix showcases the continued growth of the event during the early 1960s. Inside are race lineups, event information, and advertisements that reflect both the motorsport culture and the strong local support behind the races. We appreciate Susan Wettstein for helping preserve this piece of Lake Garnett Grand Prix history.

Toly Arutunoff is an internationally celebrated sports car racer and unique car collector.  He raced a 1957 Porsche Carrera Speedster GS at the original Lake Garnett Grand Prix in 1959, the first year.  Toly raced all over the SCCA races in the U.S and also raced in Europe.  He won the 1981 H-Production SCCA national championship and the President’s Cup. Toly came back to the Lake Garnett Grand Prix Revival this year to celebrate the 60th anniversary and to run his 2002 Qvale Mangusta in the 80 MPH group.  Toly and Brian Haupt (who raced in 1972, the last year of...

The 2025 Lake Garnett Grand Prix Revival Spirit of the Event Award recognizes an outstanding group of individuals and organizations whose dedication helps make the event possible each year. Congratulations to Paul Yeager, Scott Ward, Willie Helms, Rick Feuerborn, TT&T Towing (Mike Topp), the City of Garnett (Kris Hixx), Garnett Fire Department, St. Luke’s Anderson County Ambulance, Jon Mensie, and Rick VanTuyl. This award honors those who give their time, expertise, and support to ensure the revival runs smoothly and safely. From logistics and safety to behind-the-scenes coordination, their efforts reflect the strong community partnership that defines the Lake Garnett...

Lake Garnett is an old historic “Ghost Track” at Garnett, KS that held famous SCCA races from 1959 to 1972. Many of the sports car greats raced there: Dave McDonald, Don Yenko, Ken Miles, Jack Hinkle, Jim Hall, Bob Johnson, Bob Aylward, Toly Arutunoff and KC legends Bob Hindson, Tom Newcomer, Grace Harris, Joe Egle and Woody Woodward. I never had the opportunity to see the races at Lake Garnett in the old days, but now I have the opportunity to actually run my 1949 MG TC on the very same road course as legends of sports car racing did....

This documentary explores the early “street years” at Watkins Glen, when racing took place on public roads before the construction of the permanent circuit. Much like Lake Garnett, the original Watkins Glen races were run through everyday roadways, transforming quiet communities into high-speed motorsport venues. During the 1960s, Watkins Glen and Lake Garnett even competed for the opportunity to host National Championship SCCA events. Both shared similar beginnings — grassroots organization, passionate volunteers, and drivers eager to test their skills on challenging road courses. This film offers a compelling look at a legendary circuit whose early history closely mirrors that...

Toly Arutunoff raced at Lake Garnett in 1959 with a ’57 Porsche Carrera Speedster GS listed at 100 HP.  I had a fun interview with Toly.  He said his Speedster was fun, nimble and had good brakes.  Toly remembered staying at someone’s house in Garnett.  He remembered the course as having a narrow bridge, a dip but no chicane back then.  Toly said people took the train from Tulsa to come to Lake Garnett.  Toly remembered KC’s Tom Newcomer as a friend, Bob Aylward from Wichita who was later murdered, KC’s Harvey “Woody” Woodward who put his car into the...

Congratulations to Troy Hart, Tracy Modlin, and Rodney Phares (not pictured) for being named the 2021 Lake Garnett Grand Prix Revival Spirit of the Event Award winners. The Spirit of the Event Award recognizes individuals who embody the enthusiasm, dedication, and community-minded attitude that define the Lake Garnett Grand Prix Revival. Whether through volunteer efforts, behind-the-scenes support, or a passion for preserving racing heritage, these recipients represent the very heart of the event. Their contributions help ensure that the tradition of the Lake Garnett Grand Prix Revival continues to thrive for future generations. We thank them for their commitment and...

Editor’s Note: This story was written and submitted by sports car enthusiast Stephen J. England, who recently discovered the Lake Garnett Grand Prix Revival through social media. After reconnecting with the legacy of Lake Garnett, he graciously reached out to share the memories of his family’s racing experiences at the historic raceway, and how he is looking forward to returning. We’re proud to feature his contribution as part of preserving and celebrating the history that continues to bring people back to Garnett. We welcome anyone who would like to share their stories of the either the original races or the...

Here is some of the crew recruiting at the All Speed Expo for 2020. We had a great turn out and met lots of great folks while getting to talk about this years event for Lake Garnett Grand Prix Revival. We are holding the event October 9th, 10th and 11th which is the second weekend in October. The second weekend is always our goal unless, mother nature tells us otherwise. Look forward to seeing you on the track. Enjoy a few pics

These newspaper clippings capture an important chapter in Lake Garnett Grand Prix history. Pictured are Claude C. Anderson Jr. and James J. Anderson, owners of Anderson Motor Co., photographed in 1963 at their location on 6th and Oak Street in Garnett. Claude C. Anderson Jr. was a continuous member of the Board of Directors of the Lake Garnett Grand Prix and played a pivotal role in elevating the event’s profile. Through his connections, Anderson secured none other than Carol Shelby and his Cobra team to compete at the Lake Garnett Grand Prix. Shelby’s drivers included Ken Miles and Walt McDonald,...

by Jason Pendleton View Original Document Freedom, freedom, freedom” chanted the swelling crowd of young people that had converged on the courthouse square to voice its anger over the arrests of its peers by local police. Late into the night of July 6, 1963, the local police and sheriff’s authorities stood face to face with an angry mob of more than two thousand. Acutely aware that the situation was moving beyond their ability to control, the local authorities sought assistance from the state police and the governor. Highway patrolman and other law enforcement authorities from as far away as the state capital raced...

The 1963 Lake Garnett Grand Prix program documents one of the most memorable years in the event’s history. Featuring driver information, race schedules, and sponsor support, the program reflects a race that drew notable talent and growing attention. It stands as a tangible reminder of the professionalism and excitement surrounding the Grand Prix during this era. Our thanks to Susan Wettstein for sharing this historic document.

The 1968 Lake Garnett Grand Prix program reflects a later chapter in the original run of races. Its pages document the competitors, schedule, and community partnerships that kept the event thriving. As the racing world continued to evolve, Lake Garnett remained an important venue for drivers and fans alike. Thank you to Susan Wettstein for preserving and sharing this historic program.

This newspaper article, written by Dane Hicks and published in The Anderson County Review, highlights the return of the Lake Garnett Grand Prix through the modern-day revival event. The piece captures the excitement surrounding the renewed celebration of Garnett’s racing heritage, connecting today’s community with the historic road races that once drew national attention. Coverage like this reflects the continued local pride and growing interest in honoring the legacy of the original Grand Prix. We appreciate the thoughtful reporting and support in helping share the story of the Lake Garnett Grand Prix Revival.

Congratulations to Bo Harris, Stacy Smith, Scott Ward, and Matt Harris as the 2024 recipients of the Lake Garnett Grand Prix Revival Spirit of the Event Award. Each year, this award recognizes individuals whose dedication, energy, and behind-the-scenes efforts help make the revival event possible. From planning and organizing to supporting drivers and engaging the community, their contributions strengthen the experience for everyone involved. The Lake Garnett Grand Prix Revival continues to grow because of people willing to invest their time and passion into preserving and celebrating this special tradition. We thank them for their commitment to the event and...